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Third Test: New Zealand's Peter Fulton feels the dismissal of Alastair Cook could be crucial

Peter Fulton believes the dismissal of England captain Alastair Cook could be key to New Zealand's hopes of success.

Last Updated: 25/03/13 9:16pm

Cook fell for 43 late on day four as England were reduced to 90-4 - chasing an improbable 481 for victory. Nick Compton, Jonathan Trott and Steven Finn were also dismissed to leave England on the brink of defeat.

And Fulton, who had earlier in the day completed his second century of the match as the Black Caps posted 241-6, feels that wicket could be the turning point for the hosts.

"He's shown he can bat for a long time. To pick him up was crucial, and to grab the nightwatchman there at the end as well was a nice little bonus.

"There's more hard work to do in the morning, then we've got another new ball which hopefully will create some opportunities. I don't think anyone's getting too far ahead of themselves but... definitely on the right track."

Focused

Fulton followed his maiden century three days ago with a brutal knock of 110, including 14 fours and five sixes.

He became only the fourth New Zealander to hit two centuries in the same Test - joining Glenn Turner, Geoff Howarth and Andrew Jones - and the opener admitted it all felt slightly surreal.

"It does a little bit," he said. "It hasn't really sunk in yet. We're just focused on getting out there in the field and hoping we can get some wickets.

"We did a lot of hard work last night, myself and Dean (Brownlie) getting through to stumps. I guess the game was right in the balance this morning when we came out.

"We had to do some more hard work, and then at the end of that session we had a little bit of fun."